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About River Forest.

River Forest is a unique town, located on the border between Chicago and the western suburbs. Its proximity to the Des Plaines River and Thacker Woods gives River Forest a natural aspect, while nearby suburb Oak Park provides a variety of cultural, educational and dining experiences.

Known for its elegant homes designed and constructed during the turn of the century by many famous architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright, River Forest offers historical aspects and a modern take on suburban living.

History

Ojibwa, Menominee and Potawatomi inhabited the area until the 1830s when settlers constructed a steam-powered sawmill on the river. The area’s fertile land, forests and proximity to the river made it idea for farming and hog raising. Settlers began arriving throughout the 1800s, when the town was originally known as Noyesville.

The temperance movement is what cased River Forest’s incorporation in 1880. Money from local saloons helped pay for various urban amenities, and the area saw its biggest population boom in the early 1900s. Today, the population rises above 10,000 residents.

Transportation

River Forest provides a variety of transportation options. The town’s proximity to Chicago allows access to all of the major Chicagoland expressways, as well as airports.

There is a METRA stop in River Forest on the Union Pacific/West Line, providing a quick trip to downtown Chicago, as well as much of the western suburbs.

The CTA Harlem/Lake Train Station is conveniently located near River Forest and offers affordable and fast transportation to Chicago.

Capri Italian Foods is a family-owned business that has offered imported Italian goods for more than 40 years. Visitors can purchase olive oils, cheeses, Italian ice and gelato, as well as the store’s homemade spaghetti sauce and meatballs.

Outdoor Recreation

Found in 1905, the River Forest Tennis Club is a member-based organization that provides tennis facilities, a pool and a variety of club events throughout the year.

The River Forest Park District maintains parks across the area, featuring a number of tennis courts, baseball diamonds, walking paths, play areas and open space to accommodate outdoor activities.

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County is based out of River Forest, offering education and events throughout the entire Cook County forest preserve system. River Forest’s own Thacker Woods is a well-known area for events.

General Population Information

Population (2000):

11,635 people
4,092 households
2,909 families

36.7% of households had children under the age of 18 living with them
59.0% of households were married couples living together
10.0% of households had a female householder with no husband present
28.9% of households were non-families
25.6% of households were made up of individuals
11.3% of households had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older

The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.19.

The median income for a household in the village was $89,284 and the median income for a family was $122,155.